Lisbon Metro Welcomes First of 14 New Trains – A Game Changer for Commuters

Major Upgrade for Lisbon Metro

The Metropolitano de Lisboa has proudly received the first of 14 new triple units (42 carriages) as part of an ambitious €72.7 million investment in its Expansion and Modernization Plan. This initiative began with the construction of the Circular Line and is a significant step towards enhancing public transport in the city.

Key Features of the New Carriages

• Enhanced Comfort and Accessibility: The new trains promise greater comfort and accessibility for passengers.
• Service Launch: The new units are set to be operational by January 2025.
• Specifications: Each carriage weighs 30 tons, measures 16 meters in length, 2.80 meters in width, and 3.50 meters in height.

Transport and Installation

The first triple unit traveled approximately 900 kilometers over three days, transported by three trucks. The technical operation to transfer the carriages from the trucks to the tracks required two 70-ton cranes.

Benefits for Passengers

The new carriages feature:

1. Large Windows and Spacious Design: This allows for smooth entry and exit for passengers.
2. Optimized Passenger Lounge: Designed to maximize space while meeting seating requirements, each unit has 90 seats, including 30 priority seats.
3. Increased Capacity: More room in the passenger area allows for a higher number of commuters to travel comfortably.
4. Wheelchair Accessibility: Each unit accommodates two wheelchairs, with no ramps or slopes at the doors to facilitate ease of access.
5. Stability Features: The wheelchair space is oriented to ensure stability during travel.

Future Expansion Plans

In late 2023, the Metropolitano de Lisboa announced a new international tender for the purchase of 24 additional triple units (72 carriages) to further strengthen its fleet in line with network expansion. This also includes an option for 12 more units, with a base price of €138 million.

This ongoing investment is crucial for replacing aging rolling stock and ensuring the flexibility and interoperability of the entire fleet. The acquisition of these new trains is a significant milestone in the continuous improvement of the Lisbon Metro, aligning with Portugal's commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and promoting sustainable mobility.

For more details, check out the video link here.